Musculi levatores costarum
The levator costae (levator muscles of the ribs) are small muscles that originate from the transverse processes of the thoracic vertebrae and insert on the angle of the rib immediately caudal. They assist the external intercostals in elevating the ribs during inspiration and can contribute to lateral flexion. They are innervated by the dorsal branches of the thoracic spinal nerves.
Origin: Transverse processes of T1-T17
Insertion: Angle of the rib immediately caudal
Action: Elevates the ribs; assists inspiration and lateral flexion
Innervation: Dorsal branches of thoracic spinal nerves
Rarely a primary clinical problem. Part of the respiratory musculature.
## Overview Costovertebral joints are the articulations between the ribs and the thoracic vertebrae. Dysfunction (restriction or osteoarthritis) can produce localized back pain, reduced rib-cage mobi
Increased respiratory effort is more often related to lung or airway problems than to these small muscles.
## Overview Costovertebral joints are the articulations between the ribs and the thoracic vertebrae. Dysfunction (restriction or osteoarthritis) can produce localized back pain, reduced rib-cage mobility, and compensatory stiffness. It is identified clinically more often than radiographically. ## Causes Repetitive asymmetrical loading, trauma, or age-related change. ## Diagnosis Motion palpation reveals restricted rib movement and pain. Imaging is used when structural disease is suspected. ## Treatment Manual therapy, mobilization, anti-inflammatories, and correction of underlying gait or saddle issues. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with appropriate manual therapy and management of contributing factors. ## Prevention Balanced work and regular mobility maintenance. Signs include: localized thoracic pain; reduced rib mobility; asymmetrical posture; sensitivity along the back
Rarely a primary clinical problem. Part of the respiratory musculature.
Increased respiratory effort is more often related to lung or airway problems than to these small muscles.
See the Levator Muscles of the Ribs on our interactive 3D horse model. Open 3D Model